Biker Jim throws party Monday night to benefit sidelined cook

He’s eating cheesecake here, but tonight Biker Jim will be urging people to spend their money at Star Bar, to raise cash for a line cook.

Michael Bass has been a “rock star” at Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs since the restaurant opened, close to two years ago. But for now, at least, the line cook is away from the griddles. He suffered a pair of strokes, and isn’t ready to get back to work. Unfortunately, the medical care for the strokes is expensive. And Bass doesn’t have health insurance. So Biker Jim’s owner Jim Pittenger is holding a benefit in Bass’ honor Monday night – tonight – at the Star Bar, just down the street from Jim’s, on Larimer Street.

“Mike’s got a super great attitude, a great work ethic,” said Pittenger. “We are closing Biker Jim’s at 3 o’clock and heading over to the Star Bar at 6. Great Divide Brewery donated a couple of kegs. We will sell the beer, and all proceeds go to him.” When I talked to Jimbo on the horn today, he was running around town collecting gift certificates from area restaurateurs, to be auctioned off for the benefit if Bass.

I would go to this benefit, but I am a little put off that Biker Jim doesn’t offer his employees health insurance. As a small business owner, I do. I personally don’t want to continue paying premiums through the nose for people who choose to not carry independant health insurance and businesses that do not cover employees. News flash, Biker Jim… This was avoidable.